2014 BENTLEY Flying Spur Review

Still, the Flying Spur’s cabin somehow manages to work its magic on you. We’ve been complaining about the lack of various features and yet we would still choose this experience compared to that in the Mercedes S65 AMG, which is itself a synonym for technology.

We are indulging in the leather aroma of the Flying Spur’s cabin at the moment. Only a slight buzz comes from the surrounding city - the sound of the worker bees catering to your needs.

With its imperial presence, the Flying Spur does anything but blend in with the city. However, if you change the perspective and assess the matter from the driver’s seat, you’ll feel this Bentley being perfectly integrated into the city.

Everything is done so effortless, so seamless, as if the car was part of some urban transport network powered by air and magnets. You don’t even feel the vehicle changing gears or fighting to muffle the potholes. The only time when you are aware of the car’s systems at work is when you brake. Sheer weight can not be ignored.

We do have a gripe though. There’s a lack of initial throttle response, which can bring you into unpleasant situations at times.

Let’s say that, for example, you reach a situation where you and another driver (or pedestrian) rely on eye contact for giving way. It may be rare or unorthodox, but let’s face it, this can happen. Well, the aforementioned issue may cause a delay that will make the other guy think you’ve decided to let him pass. You really wouldn’t want that, not when your car is on its way to setting off.

Willing to investigate, we stepped out into the open road and started playing with the gas pedal. The aforementioned feeling is, unfortunately, confirmed. The Flying Spur lacks proper initial response.

In theory, the six-liter twin-turbo W12 engine comes with a new management system that promises superior torque delivery, turbocharger management, better drivability and emissions.

The W12 in the Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed we tested a while ago delivered 610 hp and 553.2 lb-ft (750 Nm) arriving as early as 1,750 rpm. These efforts were channeled through a ZF six-speed automatic gearbox. The Flying Spur tester we’re currently in comes with 616 hp and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque delivered from 2,000 rpm. The unit is now mated to a 8-speed ZF slush box.